Weeping Rock Trail - 0.4mi Steep Paved Hike

A large, arch shaped alcove streaked with dark shades of orange on red rock.

This is a paved hike that punches above its weight. Just 0.4 miles and 98 feet of elevation gain, but the grade is relentless—you'll feel every step. The payoff: a rock alcove with hanging gardens and dripping springs, plus trailside exhibits. Most hikers complete it in 15-45 minutes, but don't underestimate the steepness or the minor drop-offs on the stairs.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 0.4
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 98

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 0.4
Route Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty Level: Easy
Elevation Gain Feet: 98
Estimated Time: 15-45 minutes
Trail Surface: Paved with stairs
Trail Features: Paved trail
Rock alcove
Hanging gardens
Dripping springs
Trailside exhibits
Stairs
Trail Highlights: Rock alcove with hanging gardens and dripping springs. Hanging garden ecosystem featuring desert seeps.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Weeping Rock Trailhead, Shuttle Stop 7, Zion Canyon
Shuttle Required: 1
Shuttle Details: Zion Canyon shuttle-only roughly March through late November. Shuttle included with park entrance fee ($35 private vehicle).

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permits required. Park entrance fee applies.
Fees: $35 for a private vehicle (includes shuttle access during shuttle season).
Trail Status: Currently closed due to rockfall.
Seasonal Closures: No permanent seasonal closures, but rockfall debris occasionally closes the trail. Winter snow is possible but rare.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: None on trail. Carry water (1+ liter recommended).
Accessibility: Short but steep paved trail that gains 98ft (30m) of elevation in 0.4mi (0.6km). Minor drop-offs. Trail includes several stairs.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Minor drop-offs
Stairs
Steep gradient
Exposed sun
Rockfall risk from above
Hazard Details: Trail includes minor drop-offs along the paved section and stairs at the end. Steepness surprises unprepared hikers. Stairs are slippery when wet. Rockfall risk from the alcove above.
Crowd Level: Very busy, especially during peak season (March-October).
Peak Crowd Times: Mornings (7 AM - 10 AM) and midday (11 AM - 2 PM), especially March through October.
Best Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
Best Time To Visit: Start at dawn—before crowds and heat. Spring and fall offer ideal conditions. Zion runs shuttle-only March through November. Always check trail status first; rockfall closures are real.
Tips Advice: Hydrate hard—no water on trail. 1 liter minimum.
Wear boots with good grip. Stairs are slippery when wet.
The steepness front-loads; the descent punishes knees. Trekking poles save your joints.
This is a lung-buster disguised as short. Don't get caught off-guard.

More details

Park Area: Zion Canyon
Trail Markers: Well-marked paved trail. The alcove is obvious destination—difficult to get lost.
Dogs Allowed: No. Pets are not allowed on any trail other than the Pa'rus Trail.
Shade Level: Minimal. Mostly exposed, paved surface. Hat and sunscreen essential.
Emergency Contacts: Call 911 in emergencies. Zion Rangers patrol the area. Visitor assistance at Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
Map Recommended: 0
Snow Dates: Possible in winter but rare at Zion elevations.
Mud Season: Possible after heavy rains, but the paved surface drains quickly.
Bug Season: Mosquitoes possible in summer near the springs, especially after rain.
Insider Tips: The springs above the alcove create the 'weeping' effect—look up as well as down.
The trail is short enough to pair with nearby hikes like Riverside Walk or Pa'rus Trail.
The steepness is front-loaded on the return; the descent is harder on knees than the ascent.
Shadows from the alcove make the spot cooler—a midday escape.
Recent Updates: Currently closed due to rockfall. Check NPS.gov for real-time trail status before planning your visit.
Family Friendly Notes: Yes, but with caution. The paved surface works early on, but stairs at the end require careful footing. Keep young children close to drop-offs. The steepness may tire younger kids; pace accordingly.
Nearby Facilities: Pit toilets at parking area. Zion Canyon Visitor Center, Zion Human History Museum nearby. No water sources on trail itself.
Review Summary: Hikers praise the compact payoff, but the steepness surprises many given the short distance. The hanging gardens and dripping springs make it memorable. Major caution: manage expectations on gradient and respect rockfall closure status.

Frequently asked questions

Is this trail doable if I'm not very fit?

Yes, but go slow. It's only 0.4 miles, but the grade is steep—allow 30-45 minutes. Take breaks if you need to. Most hikers manage it.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes, it's heavily trafficked and near the main park area. Carry water, tell someone where you're going, and watch for minor drop-offs on the stairs.

Do I need special gear?

No. Good hiking shoes with grip are sufficient. Trekking poles optional but helpful on the descent. Bring plenty of water—there's no source on the trail.

Can my kids do this?

Yes, but watch them constantly near stairs and drop-offs. Younger children (under 5) may struggle with the steepness or be intimidated by heights.

Why is the trail sometimes closed?

Rockfall from above can temporarily close the trail. Always check the NPS website or visitor center before starting.

Do I need a permit?

No. Only the park entrance fee ($35 for a vehicle) is required.

What makes the 'weeping' rock weep?

It's a natural spring seep—water filtering through the rock face and dripping down, creating the hanging gardens. A reliable water source for the desert ecosystem.